All over the world belts provide power transmission in transportation, industrial and commercial machines. Belt drives for power transmission are classified as frictional drives. The belt transmits power by contacting the sides of the drive and driven sheaves. Belts are available in several styles: Flat belts, v-belts, Synchronous (timing) belts and Multi-ribbed belts. While belts…
Read More
We have several blogs discussing the differences between coupling alignment tolerances and precision shaft alignment tolerances (see links below). As stated in those blogs the coupling manufacture’s tolerances are for the coupling. As maintenance professionals we are concerned with the coupling, however we are more concerned with the bearings in the machines. Precision shaft alignment…
Read MoreThis grainy photo was from my last day at a Weyerhaeuser mill in 1987. I was a 26 year old millwright. If you look closely, you’ll see an IBM computer in the storeroom. We had another one we used for running Palomar Microlog vibration data collection. We had a first generation laser alignment tool, but…
Read MoreAcoem widens its Industry 4.0 reliability services capabilities in North America with the integration of Reliability Point Acoem’s vision of becoming the world leader in Industry 4.0 reliability solutions and services took another leap forward this week with the acquisition of the Reliability division of US asset Integrity and Reliability company, Reliability Point. Reliability Point,…
Read More
We often get asked why we don’t input a coupling diameter when performing a precision shaft alignment with the ACOEM laser alignment systems. The coupling diameter (or more correctly sweep of a face dial indicator) is only required when doing a rim and face dial indicator alignment or when the user wants to know the…
Read More
The idea of maintaining machinery and maintaining the environment may sound like science fiction, or like apples and oranges. However maintaining equipment can have a direct, positive, measurable, and meaningful effect on the planet, the plant, and the people who own and work on them, if executed properly. How? Machinery that is designed properly, and…
Read More
What is criticality and why is it important for your machines? Machine criticality makes it possible to define the prioritization of maintenance actions, in order to ensure that the production system works as close to its nominal capacity as possible. Each of the analyzed machines must be classified accordingly by three levels of impact (ABC…
Read More
Are your bearings failing? If so, the lubricant you’re using might be the culprit. Whether you use the original equipment manufacturer’s (OEM) lubricant recommendation or an alternative (though, OEM is recommended for optimal performance), an incorrect application can lead to costly failures. Well you’re in luck because a simple solution you are likely familiar with…
Read More
While preventive and predictive maintenance both play an important role in maintaining the overall health of your equipment, there are a few differences between these two types of maintenance. Which is best for your facility? Let’s consider the pros and cons. Preventive Maintenance Preventive maintenance is planned and takes place on a recurring basis.…
Read More
Industry 4.0 Industry is in the midst of a technological revolution. While many companies are still waking up to Industry 4.0 and what it means, we’re not exactly in the dawn of this new era. Technology on the whole has rapidly advanced since the start of the new millennium, and we don’t have to look…
Read More
We use our social media and blog as a way to educate and directly connect with our trainees and customers. Most recently, we took to Reddit as a way to engage with industry professionals. To get started, our trainer Stan Riddle hosted an AMA back in October. If you’re new to Reddit, an AMA is…
Read More
Successful predictive maintenance programs are dependent on the expertise and tools of the teams behind the machines being maintained. We’ve identified 6 common machine faults you’ll likely encounter on your maintenance routes. Bearing defects include wear and tear on any part of a bearing. This can mean abrasion, pressure damage, fluting, and corrosion. These issues…
Read More
If you have read any of our blogs, you have seen we run into some unique alignment scenarios. During a recent class in a shipyard, there was a need to perform a Cardan Shaft Alignment in a boat with very little space to work in. It also required shooting the lasers through a hole…
Read More
Sometimes other data can influence analysis when running your regular routes. This data can range from discharge pressure on pump to slide valve position on a chiller or maybe just bearing temperature just to name a few. With the Falcon and Nest this type of data can be collected and even trended in the Nest.…
Read More
A recent question from a customer prompted me to write on this topic. The question was essentially “Can we use the laser alignment tool in steamy conditions?” I have heard similar questions over the years for example: Can the laser alignment tool withstand use in wet conditions? How resistant is the laser alignment tool to…
Read More
If you’re working to maintain machines, Acoem USA wants to help.
We’re committed to providing tools, training, and services that will transform your approach to maintenance and reliability.
